Author Archives: amelialipcsei

Welcome to The Shield‘s annual satire section.  Writers use satire to improve a problem in society. Sometimes readers misunderstand the satire as they do not recognize the hyperbole, irony, rhetorical questions, sarcasm, and understatements. Readers may mistake the satirical solution for the actual solution that the writer proposes. The ideas in these satire stories do not necessarilyContinue reading “Discomfort”

By Amelia Lipcsei Known for their air purifying abilities, spider plants have been used to remove toxins, such as formaldehyde (which is often found in common household adhesives and fillers), carbon monoxide, xylene, and benzene. These toxins have often been linked to cancer and other deadly diseases.  In the late 1900’s, NASA conducted a studyContinue reading “A Breath of Fresh Air”

By Sinchana Holla Amanda Schwarz, is an athlete, hard worker, close friend, and most importantly, an avid plant hoarder. Here is an insight into her plant beliefs.  I like nature, they make good decor, taking care of them gives me something tranquil to do, and I think they give good vibes.  About fifteen I think. Continue reading “Amanda and Her Plants”

By Lily Bourne Looking for a way to grow essentially infinite plants, all for the price of one? Well, propagating might be just the technique for you! Many plants have the unique ability to grow from one root, stem, or leaf into a whole new plant. By taking this propagule and placing it in optimalContinue reading “Propagating Plants”

By Lily Bourne and Madeline Crowley When wandering around Downtown Campbell, a particular type of store seems to pop up continuously among the various restaurants and other establishments. With four unique plant stores in the general area around Downtown, it is hard to choose which one to visit! We rated each store considering the prices,Continue reading “Rating Local Plant Shops”

By Julia Kemp Ever since I was very little I’ve loved collecting flowers. While my friends ran around, playing tag or wall ball, I lounged in the fields, making flower crowns. Carefully choosing small daisies and diligently twisting together stems, I spent hours perfecting this craft. Now, I’ve grown out of my flower crown expertise;Continue reading “My BFFs (Best Fresh Flowers)”

By Nupur Kudapkar  Flowers in modern society are given as a token of appreciation, to loved ones and significant others, to congratulate someone on their victories, as corsages and boutonnieres for a variety of events, funerals, etc. The versatility and cheapness of flowers make them excellent for any occasion; however, the question begs: since whenContinue reading “History: The Significance of Giving People Flowers “

By Amelie Arango  As candy hearts, boxed chocolates, and bouquets of roses line the aisles of stores across the country, there is a part of Valentine’s day that often goes unseen. Queer people are excluded from this holiday that only focuses on heterosexual love.  Cards only have options for “him” and “her,” and those thatContinue reading “Lack of Inclusivity on Valentine’s Day “

By Madeline Crowley Going into Valentine’s Day, a day centered so heavily around love, and feeling like you are unloved has to be just about the worst feeling ever. Love is certainly the most meaningful four letter word in the entire dictionary. By society, it’s a word commonly used to describe intense feelings of affectionContinue reading “What Love Means to Me”

By Cynthia Andary  Are you struggling trying to figure out what your plans are on Valentine’s Day? I recommend turning it into a Galentine’s Day! Spend it with your best friends cooking, watching movies, painting, and more. A picnic is a great way to enjoy some fresh air and spend some time outdoors. Instead ofContinue reading “Celebrating Galentine’s”